Advanced Directives: History, Recommendations, and Legal and Ethical

Abstract: Considerations An 11 page overview of advanced directives in the medical arena. The author reviews the history of advanced directives utilizing such historic cases as the Karen Ann Quinlan case and the recent high profile case of Terri Schiavo to emphasize their importance. The provisions of the 1991 Patient Self Determination Act are explored and recommendations made regarding their implementation on both a personal and organizational level. Statistics are provided regarding the popularity of such directives. A copy of a generic durable power of attorney form is included as supplementary material. Bibliography lists 10 sources.

---

Catagory: Nursing : Birth Through Death

Subcatagory: Health

---